I visited Pickneyville Community Center in Duluth. At the center, two artists were displaying their work. One artist was Ernest E. Varner. Varner had many oil paintings on display that were for sale. His artist statement was “ We are most like our creator when we are being creative.” In his statement, he also said, “Great Art can be experienced on many levels. This often depends on the artist’s ability to communicate and the viewer’s ability to reach.” The oil paintings were nicely framed and hung around one room. The center does have an opening night with refreshments. An employee in the center said around 50 to 100 people come to the opening night. The other artist showing there was Vanessa Morrison. She was a doll maker. Several dolls were on display. In her statement, she said she liked to see the joy that the dolls bring to others. While I was there, no other person came to view the art. I am not sure if the community is aware of this art that is in their own backyard. The center has a program called Van Go! This program provides field trips to various art venues in Atlanta. I tried talking to an employee there but he did not provide much information. He did not know how the artists are picked to show at the center. I believe most community centers around Atlanta have some type of art gallery or program. You would need to look up your local one in your area. I think for people who do not want to travel far these community centers are a great way to get exposed to art.
